Projects
Functional diversity of endosymbiotic bacterial communities in marine green algae Ghent University
Algal aquaculture is developing exponentially worldwide, with multiple applications in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Current research in algal biotechnology mostly focuses on metabolite discovery, aquaculture yield improvement and engi
Evolution of the translation machinery of green algae (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) Ghent University
The process by which messenger RNA is translated into proteins is highly conserved across eukaryotes. Yet, lineage specific deviations of the translational apparatus exist, including alterations of the genetic code and lateral transfers of essential genes. Recently, we have shown several atypical features in the green algal class Ulvophyceae, including a deviant genetic code, highly divergent ribosomal RNA genes, and lateral transfer of ...
The role of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) on the bioavailability of metals and phosphorus to green algae as affected by the source of DOM in surface water. KU Leuven
Endosymbiotic bacteria in coenocytic green algae - exploration of a partnership Ghent University
Endosymbiotic bacteria are of common occurrence in coenocytic green algae and may be associated with various metabolic functions. We aim to study the association between coenocytic algae and their bacterial endosymbionts. We will identify the bacterial partner(s), assess possible co-evolution, study the role of the bacterial partner, the degree of inter-dependency and how bacteria are recruited from the environments.
Data generation and processing power to resolve fundamental questions in green algal research Ghent University
This project includes the generation of small EST libraries of two green algae in order to partially explain a few important cell biological transitions in green algae. It also includes the purchase of blade servers for phylogenetics and general bioinformatics.
Characterisation of Carbon Concentrating Mechanisms in the multicellular green alga Ulva mutabilis Ghent University
We want to study how the green alga Ulva mutabilis (or sea lettuce) can take up CO2 from the surrounding sea water. This process is relevant for many algae species and determines the efficiency of photosynthesis, the process that utilises solar energy and CO2 to produce sugars and the oxygen we breathe. Our research will help to link this process to the formation of blooms and the growth of algae. To identify and characterise factors in the ...
The ecological and evolutionary implications of bacterial transmission in the green alga Bryopsis plumosa Ghent University
Biotic interactions between eukaryotes and their associated bacterial communities are extremely widespread and often have profound effects on host health and fitness. Despite the relevance of such interactions, we do not yet understand the ecological and evolutionary implications related to symbiont acquisition in diverse microbiomes. Making use of the siphonous green alga Bryopsis plumosa, we will link the mode of acquisition, either ...